Event Description

The beloved holiday tradition, The Nutcracker returns to Playhouse Square's Connor Palace! Cleveland Ballet promises to enchant and inspire audiences of all ages with this magical production.

The Nutcracker in two acts is based on the original story by E.T.A. Hoffman with music composed by the renowned Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The story unfolds as Clara receives a magical nutcracker doll from her mysterious godfather, Drosselmeyer, at her family’s holiday party. As midnight strikes, Clara's home transforms into a magical realm where the nutcracker doll comes to life, leading her through a whimsical adventure filled with dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers, a mouse king, and battling toy soldiers. Along the way, Clara encounters the Sugar Plum Fairy, ruler of the Land of Sweets, who rewards her bravery with a spectacular celebration featuring dances from around the world. Clara wonders... was it all real, or just a dream?  

Cleveland Ballet
The exquisite artistry of Cleveland Ballet has been capturing the hearts of patrons in Northeast Ohio and beyond since 2015. Experience the best of ballet with the sensational 2025-2026 season that includes a bit of a bite, a touch of wonder, something majestic, and a fairytale ending. 

Become a Subscriber Today!
To learn more and purchase a subscription to all four Cleveland Ballet performances of the 2025-2026 season, visit the subscription page here.
You can also purchase a subscription by sending an email request to boxoffice@cleveballet.org to schedule an appointment or make a request by phone at 216.320.9000 ext. 107.